By Brandon Schatsiek, Camera Staff Writer
Saturday, July 11, 2009
BOULDER, Colo. — Thirteenth Street in downtown Boulder was buzzing yet again on Saturday with the usual Farmers’ Market crowd, but the sights, smells and sounds from the World Tibet Day festival in Central Park added to the excitement.
Those in attendance were treated to traditional Tibetan song and dance performances, photo exhibitions, crafts and Tibetan food stands.
It was another way in which the city of Boulder has supported Tibetans, said Tenzin Dhongyal, president of the Tibetan Association of Colorado. Boulder has a Sister City relationship with Lhasa, Tibet’s capital.
“For an oppressed people, hope and support is the only thing we have going for us and when the city looks after us and supports our people it gives us more inspiration,” Dhongyal said.
Tsamchung Chotteng, a Tibetan native who now lives in Denver, said she has yet to miss a World Tibet Day celebration. She said she likes it because of the “nice people” and sense of community.
Dhongyal said such events allow others to learn about Tibetan customs.
“We want to share our culture with the general community at large.”
